Reliable Angle Estimation in True-Time-Delay Systems with Real-Time Phase Calibration

Reliable angle-of-departure (AoD) and angle-of-arrival (AOA) estimation is a challenging task in MIMO mobile communications systems. In the context of joint communication and sensing (JC&S), accurate angle estimates can facilitate initial beam acquisition and provide valuable localization information. Recently, true-time-delay (TTD) arrays have regained interest as a method for spectrum-based angle estimation. This demonstrator presents an implementation of a TTD-based JC&S system, focusing on sensing capabilities, specifically for angle estimation. To enable beamforming and reliable angle estimation, accurate phase synchronization across the antenna elements is crucial. To address this challenge, the demonstrator includes a mechanism for real-time phase calibration. This setup serves as a proof-of-concept, validating the theoretical framework of TTD-based JC&S systems and illustrating practical implementation aspects.